Apple Lets the World In on Its Supply Chain

Posted on Jan 13, 2012

In a bid to increase transparency and overcome some dreadful PR from recent years about certain components of its global supply chain, Apple Inc. posted a lengthy “2012 Progress Report” about labor practices, working conditions and company ethics on its main website Friday. Even making the names of specific suppliers available was a big step that may signal a sea change in corporate culture, at least for the company in question if not the industry.

Our audits have always checked for compliance with environmental standards. In 2011, in addition to our standard audits, we launched a specialized auditing program to address environmental concerns about certain suppliers in China. Third-party environmental engineering experts worked with our team to conduct detailed audits at 14 facilities. We uncovered some violations and worked with our suppliers to correct the issues. We will expand our environmental auditing program in the coming year.